TMJ Disorder
Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD)
1. Introduction: Orofacial Pain and TMJ Disorders
Orofacial pain refers to discomfort in the face, jaw, or mouth, often caused by issues with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and associated muscles. The TMJ is a sliding hinge connecting your jawbone to your skull. When this hinge or surrounding muscles are not functioning properly, you may experience pain, clicking, limited jaw movement, or headaches. Dr. Ray Besharati is a specialist in orofacial pain and TMJ disorders. With advanced training and years of experience, he offers compassionate, patient-centered care for those struggling with chronic jaw and facial pain.
2. What Causes TMJ Disorders?
TMJ disorders (also called TMD) can result from various factors, such as jaw clenching, teeth grinding (bruxism), arthritis, injury, or stress. In many cases, a combination of these factors leads to jaw pain and dysfunction. Dr. Besharati takes a comprehensive approach to diagnosing TMD by evaluating your symptoms, habits, and medical history and conducting a detailed examination of your jaw and surrounding muscles.
3. Diagnosis and Evaluation
Dr. Besharati will conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical exam, digital imaging, and a review of your bite and jaw movement. Accurate diagnosis is key to successful treatment, and Dr. Besharati uses his specialized training in orofacial pain to rule out other conditions, such as dental infections, nerve disorders, or ear problems, that can mimic TMJ symptoms.
4. Conservative, Non-Surgical Treatments
Most TMJ disorders are treated without surgery. Dr. Besharati creates personalized treatment plans that may include:
- Custom night guards to prevent teeth grinding
- Physical therapy and jaw exercises
- Anti-inflammatory medications or muscle relaxants
- Behavior modification techniques
- Stress management and relaxation techniques
- Heat and cold therapy
The goal is to reduce muscle tension, protect the joint, and restore normal jaw function with the least invasive methods.
5. Botox Therapy for TMJ and Bruxism
Botox isn’t just for wrinkles—it’s also an effective treatment for TMJ pain and chronic jaw clenching. Dr. Besharati uses small, targeted injections of Botox to relax overactive jaw muscles like the masseter and temporalis. This reduces muscle strain, relieves tension headaches, and can prevent damage to the jaw joint. The procedure is quick and virtually painless, and relief is often noticeable within a few days, lasting up to 3–4 months. Botox can be a game-changer for patients who haven’t responded to traditional treatments.
6. Who Can Benefit from TMJ Treatment?
You may benefit from an evaluation if you experience jaw pain, frequent headaches, difficulty opening your mouth, or hear popping and clicking sounds when you chew. TMJ issues can affect your ability to speak, eat, and sleep comfortably. Dr. Besharati provides expert care to patients in Issaquah and the greater Seattle area and accepts referrals from general dentists and medical professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is jaw clicking constantly a problem?
A: No. Clicking may be normal if you’re not in pain and your jaw isn’t locking. We only treat clicking when it causes discomfort or limits function.
Q: Will I need surgery?
A: Surgery is rarely necessary. Most TMJ issues improve with conservative care, such as night guards, exercises, or Botox.
Q: How does Botox help with TMJ?
A: Botox relaxes the overactive muscles that cause jaw clenching, which relieves pain and reduces joint pressure.
Q: Can stress make my TMJ worse?
A: Yes. Stress can lead to muscle tension and teeth grinding, both of which aggravate TMJ symptoms.
